US suspends $3.5M in military aid to Thailand

WASHINGTON — The State Department says it has suspended $3.5 million in military aid to Thailand.

Spokeswoman Marie Harf announced the step Friday, a day after the Thai military seized power in a coup.

Harf said the department is still reviewing a further $7 million in direct U.S. assistance to Thailand, and aid from other global and regional programs.

She said the suspended programs pay for weapons sales and international military education and training for officers.

Thailand is a U.S. treaty ally and close military partner.

Secretary of State John Kerry on Thursday said there was no justification for the coup that followed months of political turmoil in Thailand. He urged the immediate restoration of civilian government and a return to democracy.